For those who severely damage or lose a permanent tooth, dental implants can restore the appearance and function of a healthy smile. This option produces a durable and more natural-looking replacement than other alternatives, such as crowns or bridges. While the treatment process can be lengthy, most patients find they can return to a normal lifestyle after recovery. This includes using an electric toothbrush for daily home care. Still, it is important to maintain proper practices to help protect the implant from damage or failure.
Many individuals who receive implants are worried about the screws loosening over time. However, this is unlikely if the procedure is performed well by an experienced professional and the patient follows instructions for follow-up care. Research has shown that electric and sonic toothbrushes, which do produce small vibrations in the mouth, are actually beneficial in preventing bone loss, gum disease and tooth decay. This type of stimulation is more likely to maintain the life of the implant when performed correctly.
Just as with natural teeth, implants should be brushed and flossed on a daily basis. While some initial appointments may be scheduled for evaluation, the patient should soon be able to return to regular checkups every six months.
Although a regular, manual toothbrush is sufficient for good oral health, electric toothbrushes may be a more favorable option. These devices are more efficient at stimulating soft tissues and circulating fluids and toothpaste into tight places. Electric versions can replicate anywhere from 2,500 to 7,000 brush strokes per minute, while sonic models move at a rate of around 30,000 strokes per minute.
Many dental professionals recommend using a manual toothbrush during the first few weeks after implant placement. This practice can help prevent irritation of sensitive tissues during the healing process. Once the area is healed, an electric toothbrush is an excellent choice for routine home cleaning.
Patients should be careful to apply only gentle pressure with light, sweeping movements. Aggressive brushing can lead to gum irritation, enamel loss and damage to the implant tooth cap. Regular flossing should also be maintained. In addition, patients may benefit from using an oral irrigation system to clean beneath the gum line.
One of the biggest potential problems with dental implants is an increased risk of infection. While this can occur if the body rejects the implant, it is more likely to happen when the site is not properly cleaned. Individuals who undergo this type of treatment should take extra care to develop healthy oral care routines while visiting the dentist as often as recommended.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Implants in San Antonio, TX.
Dental implants are an effective solution for tooth replacement. While follow-up care during recovery may differ from normal habits, regular brushing can usually resume shortly thereafter. It is always prudent to consult a dentist on specific instructions. Electric toothbrushes are often an excellent choice for daily care due to their ability to clean thoroughly and efficiently.
Request an appointment or call All Smiles Dental Center at 210-714-7429 for an appointment in our San Antonio office.
Considering an implant dentistry procedure? Read on to learn more about this type of restoration. With implant dentistry, replacing missing teeth has never been easier, and these restorations are generally indistinguishable from natural teeth. Dentists are often asked about how implant dentistry works. Due to the innovative structure of dental implant restorations, they are far…
Dental implants restore missing teeth in a way that feels natural and does not interfere with eating or speaking, but the thought of dental implant surgery may at first seem a bit daunting. Knowing what to expect can ease your mind and help you prepare to go through the surgery with minimal stress. Here are…
If you have one or more missing teeth, then you may have considered surgical implants as a long-term solution. This can be an excellent choice, but some important considerations need to be made before embarking on the journey of dental implants. By understanding what implants can offer and how to approach your treatment, you will…
Stepping into a cosmetic dentist’s clinic gives you the chance to look at how your smile can improve. The first visit will be an educational one. It also gives your dentist a chance to know you better. Here are the things that you should expect during your first visit to your cosmetic dentist.The cosmetic dentist…
During a smile makeover, a cosmetic dentist typically performs two or more procedures as part of an overall plan to improve a smile's appearance. Therefore, the definition of a smile makeover can be very broad and customizable. Smile makeovers can even be as simple as one procedure, such as dental veneers. A smile makeover plan…